FIA President Supports Argentina F1 Return Bid

Formula 1 could be moving closer to a return to Argentina after FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem expressed his support for the country's bid during a meeting with President Javier Milei. The discussions took place in Buenos Aires, where Ben Sulayem is attending the FIA American Congress. Ben Sulayem confirmed his backing for an initiative to bring either Formula 1 or the World Rally Championship back to Argentina. "I will support the initiative to have an F1 race or the World Rally Championship here in Argentina," he told the Argentine news channel A24. When asked directly if Argentina deserves a place on the modern F1 calendar, he replied, "The answer is yes." The FIA President cited the nation's rich motorsport history, noting the first Argentine Grand Prix was held in 1953 and the country's rally championship began in 1980. He also pointed to the country's passionate fanbase and improved economic conditions as factors making a return feasible. However, Ben Sulayem stressed that sentiment alone is not enough. He emphasized that Argentina must complete the same rigorous process as any potential host, including developing a viable business plan and securing government support.